IWF New Products

The International Woodworking Fair (IWF) held in Atlanta, Georgia August 26-29, 2004 hosted buyers from 43 states and 46 countries. Over 42,000 attendees browsed 1,372 exhibits, many featuring exciting new products. Following is an overview of some of the products we found that are well suited for the needs of plastic distributors and fabricators.

MACHINERY

Tilting Table Diamond Edge Polisher

A.W.E.D. introduced the Bermaq AMT Table Top Model Edge Polisher. The unit features an endless woven feed belt which transports the part past the fixed cutter head. With capacity of 1 3/8” thick, a four roller hold down clamp maintains the part against the cutter and fence giving a smooth and vibration free transparent polished edge.

The heavy duty construction assures trouble free performance. It comes complete with one cutter with replaceable tips from PCD to Natural Diamond.

The tilting table has pre-set stops at 15, 22, 30 and 45 degrees with endless stops in between.

For additional information, contact Victor Miranda, A.W.E.D. Corp., 1175 Buford Highway, Suite 101, P.O. Box 1756, Suwanee, GA 30024, 770-831-9800, Fax: 770-831-7404, E-mail: awedmachin@aol.com, Web: www.awed-machine.com.

Compact Precision Panel Saw

A redesigned vertical panel saw now available from Colonial Saw offers improved precision and convenience over previous models.

The Swiss-made Striebig COMPACT is the only saw of its kind to feature standard aluminum fingers that can be moved individually along the horizontal T-slotted center shelf bar to customize the saw. For greater comfort when sawing small panels, workpiece support is provided along the full length of the saw. Other user-friendly improvements include a shifting grid that moves upward so that it can’t be jammed or damaged by off-cuts leaning against the frame, a 24” repetitive rip device with a roller follower and a measuring stop that flips out of the way.

The new COMPACT is a freestanding, rigid unit that can handle sheets up to 5’ x 10’. It cuts perfect, repeatable edges on particleboard, acrylic, composite, plastic and non-ferrous-metal panels. There is additional dust extraction and a new plunge-handle “telescopes” to facilitate the ripping of tall panels. Other performance-enhancing features include heavy-duty support rollers and adjustable cutting depth.

Improved digital measuring systems provide increased accuracy and convenience. The X-axis system permits fine adjustment for accuracy to 1/10 mm and has a long-life battery. The Y-axis system allows toggle-switch referencing from the saw’s rollers or center shelf. Other options include a scoring saw unit, grooving accessories and an angle-cutting unit. All components are UL/CSA approved.

For additional information, contact David Bull, Colonial Saw, Inc. 122 Pembroke Street, P.O. Box A, Kingston, MA 02364, 781-585-4364, Fax: 781-585-9375, E-mail: info@csaw.com, Web: www.csaw.com.

CNC Router Line

FlexiCAM has developed the Barracuda line of machines which continues their tradition of speed, ease of use and reliability in 3D machining. What they developed was a Z-axis drive system that is faster, more reliable and offers more clearance than conventional systems used on most routers.

With this design, more clearance is created for the parts beneath the gantry and less weight has to be moved up and down, allowing you to machine thicker parts than ever before, faster. The Z-axis is designed with high quality ball screw, to aid in achieving maximum speed and precision. This Barracuda is great for sign making, woodworking and plastic cutting, and many other applications, all in a small foot print. The Barracuda is offered in 6 models and sizes from 4’ x 4’ to 8 1/2’ x 10’.

FlexiCAM also has a Pro Series that was specifically designed for demanding customers from various industries such as signmaking, neon fabrication, acrylic and plastic fabrication or solid wood working. Extensive components are available for this series, including the High Performance Turbo option. The Pro Series is offered in 11 models and sizes from 61” x 61” to 100” x 242”.

For additional information, contact Jon Dickson, FlexiCAM, 555 Burrard Street, Suite 900, Vancouver, BC Canada V7X 1M9, 604-893-7017, Fax: 604-608-2904, E-mail: jdickson@flexicam.com, Web: www.flexicam.ca.

Panel Saw With Infeed System

Holzma offers the HPP 380P Optimat panel saw for plastics with TBP-200 infeed system.

Equipped with a 28HP variable speed main saw motor, the saw has the power for quick, accurate cutting of the densest plastics and composites and the flexibility to provide the optimal saw blade rim speed to achieve outstanding edge quality for each material. Contributing to ease of operation for the HPP 380P is Holzma’s unique touch-free magnetic measuring system, automatic cutting height and length, automatic side pressure device placement, replaceable wear surface on the machine bed and the absence of exposed lubricated parts which, if present, can attract and hold abrasive dust, causing premature wear. The Windows XP-based Cadmatic 4.0 control with its detailed, 3D graphics simplifies operator training and provides detailed prompts throughout the cutting process to help the operator be productive.

For additional information, contact Bill Pitt, Holzma U.S., 1200 Tulip Drive Gastonia, NC 28052, 704-861-8239, Fax: 704-867-4140 E-mail: bpitt@stilesmachinery.com, Web: www. stilesmachinery.com.

Traveling Gantry CNC

Komo Machine introduced the new Solution Traveling Gantry CNC Machining Center. The Solution series has been developed specifically for the cost-conscious yet demanding customer who expects the utmost in technical quality and reliability. These machines feature a moving gantry configuration with table sizes available to 50’ in the X axis, and utilize the exclusive Komo-GE Fanuc Panel i control with HVI servo system and integrated Windows®-based PC.

Standard features include a four-pole HSK 63F spindle, 10 pocket automatic toolchanger with aggregate capability and a universal grid fixture table. A nine-spindle line boring

For additional information, contact Jeff Erickson, Komo Machine, Inc., 11 Industrial Blvd., Sauk Rapids, MN 56379, 800-643-5089 / 320-252-9887, Fax: 320-656- 2472, E-mail: jerickson@komo.com, Web: www.komo.com.

MultiCam introduced their new 5000 and 3000 Series CNC Routers. The 5000 series is stronger, faster and heavier then its predecessor, the MG Series. Loaded with many standard features, the all-steel, moving-gantry design allows machining of large parts while maintaining a mid-sized, space-saving footprint. Designed for a wide range of applications, the 5000 Series machines are the perfect solution for companies looking for high performance in a CNC router. The series is available in over 40 standard machine sizes from 50” x 50” to 120” x 362”.

MultiCam’s 3000 Series is loaded with standard features. The all-steel, moving-gantry design allows machining of large parts while maintaining a small, space-saving footprint. Designed for a wide range of applications, the 3000 Series machines are the perfect solution for companies looking for both value and high performance in a CNC router. Seven standard machine sizes range from 50” by 50” to 80” x 144”.

For additional information, contact Mark Allen, MultiCam L.P., P.O. Box 612048, Dallas, TX 75261, 972- 929-4070, Fax: 972-929-4071, E-mail: mark@multicam. com, Web: www.multicam.com.

Panel Cutting Saws

The Original™ Saw Company introduced two Panel Cutting Saws. These rugged manual panel sizing cutoff saws are capable of a wide variety of panel sizing operations.

The machines are constructed of a heavy welded u-channel frame, a structural tubing over arm beam, as well as cast iron and cast aluminum assemblies.

Available options include with an electronic power carriage cross feed system. Capable of cutoff applications up to an 8” deep, the saws have a cutoff capacity from 55” to 64”. Both have Continuous Duty rated motors and controls with either a 5 hp or 7.5 hp 3 phase motor. The brakes are automatic electromechanical with a magnetic starter with 24 volt low voltage controls.

For additional information, contact Allen Eden, The Original Saw Company, 465 Third Ave. SE, Brit, IA 50423, 800-733-4063, Fax: 641-843-3869, E-mail: origsaw@ncn.net, Web: www.originalsaw.com.

Vertical panel saws, traditionally, have the saw pulled down through the substrate. The saw blade enters the material from the backside. It then cuts upward, toward the facing side. This can cause “blow out” on the facing side.

Saw Trax has incorporated a second set of material roller holes in its fence which allows the user to cut in an upward direction. The new method gives the saw operator the option of cutting from the bottom of the sheet to the top of the sheet. With this technique, the saw blade cuts down through the material, from the facing side to the backside.

This new method keeps the saw blade from pulling thinner materials away from the panel saw frame when cutting. Thin plastics like 1/4” Lexan® can shatter if pulled away from the cutting surface. When cutting with this method, the saw blade pushes the material to the frame while cutting.

Attaching the material rollers in the upper holes allows the user to start a cut below the material and cut upwards while the saw blade cuts down, forcing the material down. The machine ships from the factory with the material rollers in the bottom, more traditional holes.

For additional information, contact Michael Della Polla, Saw Trax Mfg. Inc., 3790 Highway 92, Suite 200, Acworth, GA 30102, 888-SAW-TRAX / 770- 974-0021, Fax: 770-975- 1618, E-mail: sawtrax@ aol.com, Web: www.sawtrax.com.

High Precision Plastic Panel Saw

Schelling’s FMK panel saw mechanical and other specially engineered materials. The FMK provides extremely tight cutting tolerances, chip free cutting of material as thin as .020” without a cover board and produces glassy smooth finishes that eliminate the need for secondary machining.

Features include: rigid heavy duty construction; stateof- the-art material handling technology that automates loading, cutting and off-loading processes; on-line remote diagnostics for increased uptime and productivity; spindle speed control combined with a patented blade design; solid pressure beam with dust protection curtain for dust free parts; online downloading of optimized cutting patterns and label printing.

For additional information, contact Stephen Bailey, Schelling America, Inc., P.O. Box 80367, Raleigh, NC 27623, 919-544-0430, Fax: 919-544-0920, E-mail: sbailey@schelling.com, Web: www.schelling.com.

High Speed Precision Panel Saw

Designed with plastic distributors and fabricators in mind, the Sigma 120 PLM panel saw from SCM Group USA Inc. provides superior cutting quality while reducing material waste and improving yield at an affordable price.

Some of the added value features of the saw include a 4.25” cutting capability; high speed carriage movement with optimized operation for fast cycle times; a worktable designed to cut thin materials; powerful 24 hp independent main motor; main blade cooling; mass-balancing of the saw carriage to ensure even wear and a perfect edge finish; triple dust conveying system and a pusher with clamps for quick, accurate loading and cutting.

Equipped with a Dell personal computer with Cutty Sheet Optimization Software, this saw guarantees repeatability and easy operator interface. The SIGMA also includes a modem connection available for on-line technical support and many other advanced technology capabilities. The saw is available in either 10.5” or 14.5” configurations.

For additional information, contact Phil Bryant, SCM Group USA Inc., 2475 Satellite Blvd., Duluth, GA 30096, 770-813-8818, Fax: 770-813-8819, E-mail: info@ scmgroup-usa.com, Web: www.scmplastics.com.

ShopBot Tools Inc., a leading manufacturer of affordable CNC tools, now offers the fastest CNC routers in its class. ShopBot’s line of PRTalphas feature advanced, closed-loop motors and drivers, giving the tools a level of speed and productivity only seen on tools five times more expensive.

The closed-loop, “alphaStep” motors and drivers used in PRTalpha combine the best features of servo and stepper motors - offering exceptionally fast and smooth cutting motion with no “tuning” or “hunting” problems. Cutting speeds are two-tofive times faster than current ShopBots and positioning speeds are up to 1,800 inches per minute.

ShopBots, manufactured by ShopBot Tools, Inc. of Durham, N.C., are CNC machines that use basic PC computers and easy-to-use software, to design, cut and shape wood, plastic or metal products.

For additional information, contact Diane Reynolds, ShopBot Tools Inc., 3333 B Industrial Drive, Durham, NC 27704, 800-608-7500 / 919-680-4800, Fax: 919-680-4900, E-mail: info@shopbottools.com, Web: www. shopbottools.com.

CNC Router Brochure

Thermwood Corp., manufacturer of 3- and 5-axis CNC routers for trimming and machining of flat sheet and three dimensional formed plastics, has published their new brochure. Featuring their full-line of machines, Thermwood offers several sizes and configurations each directed at different applications. The “Which Router is Right for You?” section provides an overview of the various types of machines they offer. A host of options are also available that can increase the flexibility and productivity of your CNC router.

For additional information, contact Cliff Crawford, Thermwood Corporation, P.O. Box 436, Dale, IN 47523, 812-937-4476, Fax: 812-937-2956, E-mail: sales@ thermwood.com, Web: www.thermwood.com.

TOOLING

CNC Toolholders

Integra Tooling introduced their new line of CNC Toolholders, collets and accessories. The product line includes ISO-30, ISO-40 and precision-balanced HSK toolholders as well as precision collets and other accessories to fit most CNC routers, machining centers and point-to-point machines. In addition, high-precision drill toolholders, saw arbors and multiple-spindle aggregates are available.

For additional information, contact Brian Corbley, Integra Tooling, 818 Route 25A, Northport, NY 11768, 800-633-6312 / 631-261-4155, E-mail: integratooling@ aol.com, Web: www. integratooling.com.

Engraving-Lettering Tools/New Catalog

For sign makers and graphic designers looking for “V” bottom engraving and lettering bits, Onsrud Cutter introduced a significant line of router tools. The engraving tools are available in .005 to .090 diameters individually or in kit form. The lettering line provides superior “V” bottom capability for larger sign lettering or can be utilized as a chamfering tool.

They have also released their 2004 Production Routing Catalog (OC-04) offering over 2,000 products for the CNC/ Production Routing Industry. The expanded Production Routing Catalog offers new and proven products for the wood, plastic, composite and non-ferrous markets. With the addition of 200 new products, the catalog is the most comprehensive source for poly-crystalline diamond, monocrystalline diamond, diamond coated, solid carbide, carbide insert, high-speed steel and carbide- tipped milling and routing tools available today.

For additional information, contact Marybeth Thomas, Onsrud Cutter, Inc., 800 Liberty Drive, Libertyville, IL 60048, 800-234-1560 / 847- 362-1560, Fax: 847-362- 5028, Web: www.onsrud.com or www.plasticrouting.com.

Pauls Grinding Industries Ltd., manufacturers of industrial carbide-tipped saw blades, offers three blades for cutting plastics. The 20A is a nomelt, all corner bevel style blade that provides smooth cuts. The 20B is designed for cutting thin material, PVC and extrusions. The 20C, ideal for hard materials and acrylics, features a “California T.C. Grind” assuring long lasting edges.

For additional information, contact Kathy Barsony- Shymko, Pauls Grinding Industries Ltd., 1446 Erin Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada R3E 2S8, 877-744-7291 / 204-774-2434, Fax: 204-783-9218, E-mail: pgisaw1@ shaw.ca, Web: www.members.shaw.ca/pgisaw1.

Screw-on Tooling Her-Saf Screw-on Tooling by Safranet Enterprises Inc. is now being used in both automated and manual machines as well as hand held tooling.

These bits are also known as Quick Change Cutters because they reduce downtime when changing bits: the arbor stays in the collet while the dull cutter is screwed off and a new cutter is spun on in its place.

The advanced cooling design extends the life of the carbide and, depending on the material being cut, improves the cut considerably. The structural design ensures a balanced tool capable of 22,000 rpms.

For additional information, contact Linda Wyant, Safranek Enterprises Inc., 4005 El Camino Real, Atascadero CA 93422, 800-553-9344, E-mail: sales@ hersaf.com, Web: www.hersaf.com.

Plastic Cutting Tools

Southeast Tool, Inc. now has an expanded 68 page catalog. They have become your one stop source for woodworking and plastic cutting applications.

With over 3,500 items in their catalog, they have added more boring bits, insert tooling, saw blades, diamond router bits and more router bits.

For additional information, contact Chuck Hicks, Southeast Tool, Inc., P.O. Box 1597, Conover NC 28613, 828-465-7012 Fax: 828-465- 7013, E-mail: router@southeasttool.com, Web: www. southeasttool.com.

Edge Rounding Tooling

Vortex Tool Company, manufacturers of high performance router and insert tooling for woodworking and the plastics industry, added the Series 6000 to their plastics line. These solid carbide tools were designed for rounding the edge of plastic sheets and parts. The double- edge low helix design provides ultra smooth cuts while allowing for upward or downward chip removal. The tools are available as single edge “O” flute and two flute low helix upcut or downcut in 1/8”, 3/16” and 1/4”.

For additional information, contact Mike Serwa, Vortex Tool Company, Inc., 5605 Jelinek Avenue, Schofield, WI 54476, 800-355-7708 / 715-355-7707, Fax: 715-355-7353, E-mail: info@vortextool.com, Web: www.vortextool.com.

MISCELLANEOUS

Barcode Feature

EUROSOFT announced the release of a new ARDIS feature: The new function works in combination with a barcode reader (hardware not included).The user scans in the barcode attached to scrap pieces left over from previous jobs. After scanning the barcode, the software searches the database for the scrap piece that matches the barcode and then puts it back into the raw material inventory for the ARDIS Cutting Optimizer. The ARDIS software will then use these scrap pieces first in the next optimization run. The combination of barcode scanning and re-useable scrap detection in ARDIS avoids the common problem that re-useable drop gets used up or damaged but the optimization software still has them on inventory.

For additional information, contact David Talbot, Eurosoft, Inc. 1628 Old Apex Road, Cary, NC 27513, 919-468-3003, Fax: 919-468-6374, E-mail: david@ eurosoft.com, Web: www.eurosoftinc.com.

Manufacturing Software

Pattern Systems International (PSI) has created a new brochure detailing their suite of manufacturing software.

The new 4-page, full color brochure is a fully illustrated, easy-to-read guide that describes the various software programs they offer. The brochure features a flow chart style section describing each product and includes pictures of what the product does and the solution it provides.

For additional information, contact Peter Feld, Pattern Systems International, 200 Valley Road, Suite 302, Mt. Arlington, NJ 07856, 800-225-7804 / 973-770-3800, Fax: 973-770-0053, E-mail: peterf@patternsystems.com, Web: www. patternsystems.com.

Air-Vac-Clamp

With a simple flick of the foot control, the Her-Saf Air- Vac-Clamp securely holds plastics, metals and nonporous woods from all lateral movement. The Air-Vac- Clamp can easily and quickly secure a large or small workpiece while allowing full access to that workpiece. The Air-Vac-Clamp secures and releases the workpiece without leaving a mark.

Safranek Enterprises, Inc. products include easy-to- use panel routers, Air-Vac-Clamps, dentil molding machine, keyholing machines, carbide insert tooling and a shelf dapper. Each designed to increase accuracy and precision while reducing production time.

For additional information, contact Linda Wyant, Safranek Enterprises Inc., 4005 El Camino Real, Atascadero CA 93422, 800-553-9344, E-mail: sales@ hersaf.com, Web: www.hersaf.com.